Gujarat Governor returns bill on voting

The Gujarat Governor Dr Kamla has returned unsigned the Gujarat Local Authorities Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2009 which had sought to make voting in all self governing bodies compulsory. This on the basis of three objections:
1-Compulsory voting is a violation of Article 19 of the Constitution which gives the citizens freedom of speech and expression.
2-The second one which relates to a punishment to those who do not turn up to vote is also related to the first in that it violates the Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression.
3-The third one points out that this compulsory voting was a failure in different parts of the world.
With due respect to the Governor Dr Kamla let me exercise my freedom of speech and expression to question the validity of her objections. Freedom of Speech and Expression is given under the Constitution but of what use will this be if the people do not participate in the operation of the Constitution; namely in making democracy valid and vibrant especially at the local levels? Does the Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression mean non- expresssion non participation and non- articulation in that vital sphere of governance? If voting is a right then it has an obligation-to cast that precious vote. This is a very negative way of reading into Art 19-Freedom of Speech and Expression in operation means not voting-in operation means an indifference to the whole process of electing people’s representatives. What is the use of a Constitution which cannot make people constitutionally aware of their Rights in a positive way-namely to make democracy meaningful at the local level and uphold that very Constitution which ensures them of Rights? The Constitution then becomes a book of Rights in only in print.
When it came to the business of Hussain then one found this Right very much articulated and Hussain was defended on his right to the Freedom of Speech and Expression-even if meant committing jihad through his brush. Does Freedom of Speech and Expression mean indifference and non-involvement in the affairs which deal with one’s daily business of life? If one does not express this in the form of voting then how does one express approval/disapproval of functioning of the government at the local level? If one does not care to express through voting who should represent one in governance then what is democracy? Why then have a whole process of electing representatives when people are totally indifferent to this and now this indifference legitimated as a Right! Be it positive or negative Freedom of Expression in this specific case is expression through voting and does not by any stretch of imagination mean indifference. Why only in this the Right means inaction? As far as the spirit of the Constitution is concerned it calls for action, it calls for articulation in the democratic process. Citing that Right of Freedom to negate the right to better governance is not what that Right envisages.
To put in more succinctly it is taken for granted that the Constitution sleeps or at least is inactive and non-operational until and unless it is awakened. It suits most of the politicians that it sleeps. For example the oaths taken by all the Constitutional heads- governors, judges and the Ministers on the solemn promise that they would function without fear or favor. But this is not so in reality. Starting from the highest in the Judiciary-we have judges who instead of upholding justice was busy grabbing land, and refusing even to vacate the chair. We have the Prime Minister who looks on indifferently even when one of his cabinet ministers was absconding; he tells the Parliament that he is not aware of the whereabouts of the man . Now after years of the case against Sibu Soren just two days prior to the culmination of the long drawn case and the pronouncement of the verdict -the judge resigns. This would mean that the new judge must start at the very beginning. In the meantime Sibu Soren sits comfortably in the CM’s seat. So did the judges in the above two mentioned cases act according to the oath they took ‘to function without fear or favor? So such oaths are dead but only ceremoniously upheld without any meaning nor are they operational. Even the PM has failed to uphold the solemn oath he took-to function without fear or favour. Otherwise he will not countenance the continuation of his cabinet colleague A.Raja. The moment there is even a notion of fraud and corruption it is obligatory for the PM to ask the person concerned to put in his papers till his name and the alleged charges are cleared. So what is the substance of the oath of the PM in reality?
How are these related to Governor Dr Kamla’s sending back the Act passed by the Gujarat Assembly? Constitutional heads, taking of oaths in the name of the Constitution and Constitutional Rights are all inter related. Well the constitution also envisages the role of Governors. The institution itself is a legacy of the British Raj. It has to go by and large by what the CM and his council of ministers and the Assembly passes because the Governor is not the representative of the people and is not accountable to the people- The CM and his ministers are. So when Governor Dr Kamla points at the Constitution I am wondering how constitutional correct is she in citing the Art.of Freedom of Speech and Expression to send back an Act which the representatives of the people have passed? So like the oaths made by all the constitutional functionaries from the top to the bottom do we want a Constitution which in substance means nothing-which speaks of us as the biggest democracy etc but in practice it has become an oligarchy-a banana republic?
Democracy is based on numbers. It is the rule of the people for the people and by the people. But it has come to become the rule of a few by a few for all the people-Participation in democracy is the hall mark of making it vibrant-nay even valid. It is towards this that Narendra Modi’s government was working towards.
As for the second reason which is also linked to the Art. of Freedom of Expression and Speech to hold out a punishment to the people who do not make democracy valid and get involved in the governance at the local level seem to be sensible and does not negate Art 19.Carrot and stick is the method. Rights and obligations go together. But in India we have taken the easy way. This is precisely why our Public sectors are sick while the private sectors are minting money. The government is unable to pull up the babus who through their indifference, and don’t care attitude create such heavy losses. Even the government is a big defaulter in this respect. A small instruction to all ministers and officers to use only the Air India when on official work the GOI has failed to issue-result the AI is in red. Don’t punish, don’t reprimand, don’t streamline, let things go on-take it easy after all it is people’s money and hence not accountable for. This is a free for all country. Grab as much as you can, no laws will touch you as long as you are on the right side of the UPA-2.
Take the latest IPL controversy-Why was the GOI sleeping? Why had it allowed this obscene gambling with a sports item which former was sheer entertainment and everyone thoroughly enjoyed? Now with the entry of big-nay black money and fashion parade betting on players like betting on horses, came in corruption and the sleaze. Had Tharoor’s and Lalit Modi’s show of strength not erupted then everything would have gone on and the people of India will be cheated. Where were the Income Tax and the Enforcement Directorate? What was the PM and his council of Ministers doing about this? Now why suddenly the hectic raids and tracing the route of off shore black money involvement all being dug out? Is this part of the ‘to function without fear or favor” The same can be said of the CBI and the SIT. These are statutory bodies which the government uses as agencies of harassment against the political opponents or when it wants to take cover for its non governance.
All this and more calls for making the Constitution valid and vibrant.People need to become aware of their obligations not only Rights.How can the very Constitution which is the foundation of our democracy become valid if people are indifferent to casting their votes?Can democracy be democracy if a large section of the population not vote? To make is clear let me give an example-In any one ward/constituency (of say 1000 people) if only 45 percent(450) casts their votes and this get divided between the 10 contestants one with even just a 45 votes wins. He/She represents the 1000 voters and we call it democracy. Is this a valid democracy?
One must not make a mockery of democracy.Somehow we have done that.It is to stop such a mockery that Narendra Modi’s government came up with a Local Authorities Laws(Amendment) Act to make voting compulsory. Let democracy become more meaningful, at least at the local levels. It could be tried out and later amended to make it more viable. Instead the Governor sending it back and pointing at the failure of other countries as one of the reasons is not very encouraging for upholding of democracy in this country. As pointed out earlier the big question is- do we have a democracy? No country in the world claims to have a democracy as we do. Failures in other countries on compulsory voting are no indications that in Gujarat it will fail. Why not put it on trial?
Other countries have rejected the Electronic Voting Machine.Will our Governor Dr Kamla on the same basis make a case to the CEC to discontinue the EVMs? One can enumerate any number of reasons and cite examples to substantiate just one point; that anything good and new coming from Narendra Modi’s government must be rejected by the Centre and the Governor is an appointee of the Centre. This is the hard truth. I am using my right to the Freedom of Speech and Expression positively-without fear or favor-to state a truth. Even a law passed against the organized criminal activities in Maharastra was found valid and was approved by the President. But when a similar law was passed by Gujarat government there was opposition-by the Home Minister and a whole lot of Modi bashers were picking holes in it. The UPA2 advised the President against giving assent to it. The President sent it back. So here again democracy becomes valid in fits and starts. It must get the approval of the Centre and if the Centre and the State government are not allies then the problem arises. This is not a fantasy but a reality that we see. The step motherly treatment meted out to all non-congress State governments by the Congress led government at the Centre is apparent and obvious. When it comes to Gujarat it becomes blatant.
There are two yardsticks in this country which is a violation of the Constitution. When the Governor falls back on the Constitutional Right of the Freedom of Speech and Expression and state that Local Authorities Act is a violation of the Constitution I am stunned to speechlessness because of the contradiction. Equality is a Right in the Constitution but why has the GOI segmented people on religious basis for benefits? Is that not a violation of the Constitution so blatant and using people’s money towards operating it? Can any citizen be discriminated on the basis of religion? Yet the GOI has a whole ministry to uphold and finance this violation of the constitution. Does it mean that the Government under Manmohan Singh can violate the Constitution with immunity? It all points at one single motive-block all that Modi proposes.
It is a fact that Raj Bhavans in many States are becoming anti-constitutional in functioning.We in Gujarat are proud that the Raj Bhavan in Gujarat has not and will not fall into that category. Because Gujarat stands heads and shoulders above all States in India in its development and in its stewardship in administration inspite of the anti-Modism prevailing in some quarters, a concomitant of vote bank politics. We fervently hope that Dr Kamla our Governor would strengthen the vibrant Gujarat’s upward mobility built so judiciously and with such hardships-thanks to the untiring efforts of Narendra Modi the duly elected popular Chief Minister of our State.
Dr Mrs Hilda Raja,
Vadodara

It is all plan to demotivate modi geovernment for doing better as in Gujrat Congress have no root…….but by hook or crrok center trying to give negetive impact to Gujrat…………….my appeal to all Gujarati’s…..not by origin but who have proud to be gujarati and non Gujarati who are in gujarat or at aboroad who are knows truth about Modi……………….. Let’s support modi as now it is the time where modi need help of all his supporter as Center is behind him to disgress gujarat…..

Sorry Sir:
India is not USA, instead of imposing your wish on the people, go for educating and uplifting the poorest of the poor living in our villages. It sounds like a compulsory praying practiced in Saudi Arabia.

It is all the more disgusting when it comes from a person who has no secular credentials which is enshrined in our constitution.

Don’t call your self a secular Indian. You don’t know really who is secular and who is not. And what rubbish you are talking about educating and uplifting the poorest of the poor in India?

The congress was ruling both the center and the state for most of the period since independence. Why has it not succeeded in doing so for such a long period of time?

When a non-congressi and a very popular and charismatic leader is doing every thing to bring about a positive change with regards to up-liftment of people in general and development in particular in Gujrat, you so called secular people start calling him communal.

Please think of what Congress has done to sikhs in 1984? If your heart burns for muslims of gujrat, did it bleed when hindu pilgrims were massacred by burning their train? And what about the Kashmiri Pandits, who are thrown out of their homeland and are living like refugees in their own country. Why congress doesn’t take up their issue and do something for them?

I am sorry you stated that Modi has no secular credentials.May I be enlightened on who has.-Mrs Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh?To start a whole ministry on the basis of a religion-you call that secularism.To use the monies of the tax payer to budget the programs of that ministry and to subsidised Haj-is secularism?I am really sad that when it comes to a [person like Modi who is putting his best foot forward you state this.
it is easily said than done to go and educate the people first.But compulsory voting is part of education-people will realise why and what.Now the UID card is compulsory-we are to give all details of ourselves and family .If we do not provide all the details there is a penalty of Rs 1000/ What do you say to that?I am not saying that compulsory voting will immediately be a success.But it is a step in the right direction because ti starts at the grassroot level.Let us try but to return the bill saying that it violates Art 19 of the Constitution is objectionable.Will not other compulsorily enforced acts not be a violation?The fact is because it is brought by Modi’s government.If Rahul Gandhi has suggested this then it would have been hailed as the great discovery of democracy and the media will go all out to push it as the world class discovery of the century.
Please do not compare this with the compulsory prayers.All religions of the Book have compulory prayers and compulsory church services.Noone objects but meekly follows.A secular government is trying to make democracy valid and you compare that effort with something religious.
Hilda Raja

The following reply was meant for Suresh.Yes this is not the USA agreed and we are for proud of India.The USA brought in franchise and adult voting rights only after India.Each country has its own good side and bad side.But what is hurting is to question Modiji’s secular credentials.He is a patriot and precisely because he is secular and not biased he is targetted.Appeasement policy of the UPA led Congress is not secular.Now discriminating on the basis of relgion is not secular.True there was the Gujarat riots.Had there been no Godra there would not have been Gujarat riots.Burning and roasting 57 hindus not a tear shed-Similarly the Kandhmal riots would not have happened if Swami Laximananda had not been brutally butchered in his own Ashram along with three of his Ashramites.The Minority religions pour in funds into this country only to highlight only the violence against the Minorities.What happens to the Hindus-thousands of them cahased away-killed and are living as regugees in their own country.This is secularism.Paying a subsidy for Haj is secularism?Well we can go on amidst all this pointing at Modiji and questioning his secular credentials is shocking and wrong and unjust,.I am sorry Suresh you took such a stand-but in a true democracy we need to respect the views of others.
Hilda Raja

10.V Divecha | April 21, 2010 at 10:49 am

The State of Gujarat is making it compulsory for the people to vote in local government elections. Shouldn’t they first make it, voting, compulsory in those elected local governments themselves if not in the Assembly?

Dear Ms.
Kindly do not missout the following:-
1—You have intervened into my personal space by sending a un-solicited email.
2—Rights and obligations can not be and must not be forced upon. Voting is done in China too….do we call that democracy.
3—I must have the right to not to vote if I do not like any of the contestents.
4—There are many situations like illness, death of nearones, accident, water seapage in the mud-roof, cattle gone missing, epilepsy, marriage, delivery by a woman, and some time delivery by the pet buffallo and many such exigencies which may get priority over the voting for criminals, voting for fanatics, voting for Modis (Lalit or Narender) . In all such cases your law provide for penal action by the govt.
5—I would prefer to attend to any of the above rather than get forced to vote to some one I do not consider worthy of my leadership.
6—-Remaining un-repersentative is better than repersented by a thug / fanatic or cheater.
7—-Constitution has given right to assly to make laws, but created checks to stop movement of autocrate who are helped by the law of whip.

You article smells more a political propagenda rather than resonable analysis of the situation.

Your post shows your unawareness about the same amendment. If u feel no candidate deserves your vote, there will be an option which says ‘negative vote’ , u can go and choose that. Infact that would highlight that more & more ppl are unhappy with candidates.

And as far as the reasons u have mentioned, sickness – marriage – lost cattle – etc… u have a valid point…

but just think, do we miss friends marriage if our cattle is lost?? can u not manage to get time once in 5 years to exercise your duty / right to vote??

What u are stating are just excuses to not take the effort to go out and vote..

My complements to you Mr. P.R.Bhardwaj.
Because you are not for or against any thing personal.
You have pointed out openly your views without any consideration to side with any lobbly. After all a citizen has to speak in terms of citizen of India and not as a citizen of a state.
I support your contention and wish you further look into this and give your fair views to be helpful to others to understand the nature of the case and consiquences.
First of all it is nothing but a political propagenda
Secondly it is being used as an opportunity to rackup irrelevent issues and wider the net of hatracy.
One thing that I can say that injustice may not prolong but the Justice will previel finally.
Last but not the least, every person has some good or bad charector. While I appreciate for his good deeds, I curse him for his bad deed. But never I will curse a person on the whole.
Mr. Bharwaj please carry on airing issues of the peoples without partiality.

Please tellme how do you make democracy valid?By not even taking the trouble to cast your vote once in year?Then don’t call this democracy.iT It is difficult to change-even this is part of education.We have become indifferent and careless about what happens to our precious vote.Let us use it-start at the localevel and see how it works.By the way democracy is political and to propogate it surely it will be like political propoganda-should I than become an Evangelists and proselytizeThanks for your comment.
Hilda Raja

I am sorry I do not know you and I have not sent you any mail nor encrouched in your personal space.There seem to be some mistake.By the way democracy is political and not social like marriage and attending a feast etc.So what I stated is definitely political and the Constitution gives you rights under democracy.The whole question is to try and make democracy more valid and participatory.Biases apart-if Rahul Gandhi had proposed this he would have been hailed as the upholder and champion of democracy!After all it is only at the local level-why not try-thats my premise.Thanks for your comment.
Hilda Raja

We are proud to have Shri Modi Ji as CM of Gulrat. sir, you are the sourse of light to bring change in this croupt rule in the country. We have full faith in you that very soon people of the country will realise and bring change in the country.

Why government is making voting compulsory? If anyone has any objection against this then we must also remove Indian Penal Code as it violates freedom of expression. If one wants to kill someone, he / she cannot as he / she will be hanged for killing.

Why despite of giving special privilege to schedule caste / tribes, backward class are still backward after 60 years of Independence? It is because some parties (No, I am not naming Congress) does not want them to come forward. If all people come forward they will know mockery of such leaders who will be thrown out of politics. Since all people who are unfit for any business / work, they prefer to go to politics to mint money.

Mr. Narendra Modi is trying to do good for all people as so called high society or elite club or educated mass does not go to vote thereby giving chance to select leaders to uneducated / poor people who will vote to any culprit for a bottle of country liquor or kilo of rice.

Whether or not voting bill is passed, I urge all fellow Indians to vote & select least criminal candidate. This will encourage good people to stand in during next election. I foresee a very bright future for our beloved India.

I agree with you Indian,Dil Se even self immolation is criminal then why only in this the Governor falls back on Freedom of Speech and Expression.Democracy must be participatoryand best would be to try it at the local level.Thank you for your inputs.
Hilda Raja

But FREEDOM WITHOUT-RESPONSIBILITY had ABSOLUTELY-NO-MEANING at all..!!

In DEMOCRACY,which is PEOPLE’S-GOVT,which WE-INDIANS FONDLY KNOW as LOK-RAAJ,LOK-SATTA,LOK-SHAAHI, AAZAADI,SWATANTRATAAetc;it is OUR-RESPONSIBILITY to vote..!!

Same as in RELIGION DEVOTING by BODY-INTELLECT-MIND-WEALTH-MONEY etc ie by TAN-MAN and DHAN to GOD or BHAGAVAN was ABSOLUTELY-NECESSARY;similarly in DEMOCRACY through VOTING ONLY it was POSSIBLE to BRING-ABOUT-CHANGES in the SYSTEM-OF-GOVERNANCE.

Think about that for a moment..!!

And anyway,WE might somehow take the HORSE to the WATER, but SADLY WE can not make him/her/it DRINK the WATER..!!

yes RK PATEL.You are right lets take the horse to the pond and lets see if it will drink the water-thats all about compulsory voting at the local level.Trying to make democray valid.People should become responsible.Thank you for your inputs.
Hilda Raja

It is well known that voters who are old, sick or living far off from Polling Booths do not vote. Also well to do persons do not vote because of they find polling booths user unfriendly where one may have to wait in long queues and at times in adverse weather conditions.

Also the vote making is a big hassle. I live in Karnataka and the difficulties are many.

Punishment for not voting does not seem to be a good idea. I feel that it should be dropped.

It is not an issue of one state and should be tackled more broadly. How about voting on line or by cell phone in addition to the present method. One can choose any method that suits.

In village a white social worker was told by an Indian old man to do something to bring water for the people. The Gorasaheb had no idea, so the clever Indian told him to bring a it through a pipe and put a tap at the end of the pipe so that people can turn on and off the water flow. The old man managed to convenience some key Indians in the village to use it and they agree to design a bucket to hold water.

Stories spread by some people that the old man is sold out and the Goresaheb is poisoned us slowly through the water pipe. They stopped using the water from the tap. Others used the bucked as a target and made lots of hole in it.

Years went by, and then drought came. No water in sight. People gathered around the pipe line and some worked night and day to open the rusted tap. People cheered as they saw first drop of water coming out of the tap. They thanked the old man who was dead years ago for the pipe line. One of the learned men warned that the water will run out if not used carefully as it is drawn from a reservoir shared by other villages. Some one went and found the bucket filled with the holes they created but of no use all the water started to drip in to the sand. People panicked what to do, so some one came up with idea to put a plastic in the bucket. Good idea they said. Awarded the men with the freedom of the village.

Now the bucket could hold water. As people thought their problems were over, suddenly a fight broke out in the village. Some say we use this water as drinking water, others argue that it can be used for watering seeds in the farm to grow grain. Some women thought men should clean themselves with the water to prevent infection and smell. In a massive feud they smashed the bucket to a flat metal plate. Some became so angry that they ripped off the pipe and smashed the tap. The clever engineers had designed a special valve at the source of the reservoir, hundreds of miles away. It stopped the water flow, noticing the broken pipe to prevent the loss. Villages began to feel thrust; they could not access the water if they could repair the pipe and reinstall the tap. Then came a white man in a taker, sold them drinking water at a small price. Those who brought customers were give one glass of water to drink free of charge. Now people were happy, they say some one else is taking care of their problem.

The moral of the story is that it has taken years of hard work and ‘working together’ so that we have the democracy – a unique gift bestowed upon us by our leaders who fought for freedom. We can talk about the countries where there is dictatorship – military or communal or one party state; all take away ‘people’s rights’. They are seen tough and organisers but lack respect for the people. Only when we lose freedom, we know how difficult it is to regain it. For a democracy to work, we need to understand the values of it and have the moral courage to respect the boundaries. And, we are what we make of it. Forcing people is draconian measure design to control rather than adding value to the democratic process.

Governor is right in returning this bill. Constitution has given right to vote or not to vote and it is fundamental right.
A citizen is not doing anything wrong by not voting. And forcing him to vote is not democracy, it is demonocracy. If you want people to vote, politicians should run the country rightly, and encourage non voters to vote.

Dear Dr Hanni ,The Constitution becomes flacid and insipid it is not activated int he right spirit.So I think you will not submit yourseklf to the UID survey and give all the details-that is also compulsory and you can say that it is gainst the Freedom of Speech and Expression.We are trying to read the Rigts in the negative way.The right to vote means action-you can cast your negative.vote.We are only finding excuses not to take part in anything and not to participate in democracy.If we do not vote then it is a negation of democracy.
It is precisely to make the politicians run the country rightly that compulsory voting is necessary.Look at the Centre-and the big scam of the IPL all MPs of different parties are involved.IOf only we begin to take an active interest and send in the right persons can we complain-otherwise the country will go adrift.Thank your for your comment.
Hilda Raja

Dear madam
Unfortunately in our country governors are not elected by the people.They are political appointees,appointed by government at the centre thru President of india,which is once again a political appointment.

Some of the actions of the Governors are definitely detrimental to the federal fabric of this country.Governors’ post has to be abolished. However democracy in its present form is abused by most politicians and unless there is a reform, people cannot be forced to vote.

I think the idea of Compulsary voting is morally wrong. Political will to participate is a matter of an individual choice.

The debate should not go down the road about the CM Mr Mody and his political party. The proposal is from his administration and obviously their supporter will promote it as a good idea. The are political movies on both sides – for and against.

There is no problem of engaging people in Inida in politics. Our political leaders across all the parties at all levels are responsible for abusing the democretic processes! They lack moral febric both in terms of its ‘quality and width’ the purpose of their existance.

Political curreption and lack of checks and balances with in the party system has made it posible for the currept and Gundas climbing to position of authority and power- mostly tolerated and protected by political leaders. Now, religious leaders have joined, all milking the sytem.

In the political ‘bunker’ for election strategy, the voting is calculated against the importance or number on cast or religion strong holds in a cosntituency. Every day our parties sell and buy votes, riots, protests and distribute cabinet posts. Some one has to pay to get adminssion to education establishment, above the fees, or to get a job. THis all tolerated at the local village and taluka level by the party managers who are involved in engaging the people as voters.

The young generation is engage on either communal’ hype and ‘what is in for my business or family’ baisis. Take away Modi and one or two his key Generals like Mr Vyasji, the rest become would be ‘lost headless chiecken in politics’. Modi, for all his falts, engages the average masses. Agree or disagree with him he has policies and seemed to act on them. That makes him a good administrator.

I respect Mr Modi for giving gujrat a geared performance , he has an antimuslim factor in him , and that is working against him behind the scene always .
Why voting should not be made compulsory ? there should two kind of votes

– supporting a particular candidate
– none of the candidates are up to the mark an hence I am unable to cast my vote from this consttuency
-proxy voting with authentication should be allowed
– all the citizens must vote either to agree or disagree with the govt
– sitting at home drinking whisky on an election can not form a good goverment

Governors have been puppets of the Central Government when it is a Congress led Government.

There is a report in TOI of today that the Supreme Court has condemned the public prosecutor in Shabuddin case that how doe the Centre know on notice before the Special Investigation Team…
there is a clear unwarranted intereference of the Centre in the case…

Compulsory voting is a similar case of Gujarat… it is for the betterment of democracy and has been blocked as Gujarat will be the first state to bring such legislation…
God bless

But FREEDOM WITHOUT-RESPONSIBILITY also had ABSOLUTELY-NO-MEANING at all..!!

In DEMOCRACY,which is PEOPLE’S-GOVT or OUR-GOVT,which WE-INDIANS FONDLY KNOW as LOK-RAAJ,LOK-SATTA,LOK-SHAAHI, AAZAADI,SWATANTRATAA etc;it is OUR-RESPONSIBILITY to vote..!!

Because,same as in RELIGION DEVOTING by BODY-INTELLECT-MIND-WEALTH-MONEY etc ie by TAN-MAN and DHAN to GOD or NAMELESS-FORMLESS-BODYLESS-SELFLESS-UNSELFISH-BHAGAVAN was ABSOLUTELY-NECESSARY;similarly in DEMOCRACY ie OUR-GOVT ONLY through VOTING it was POSSIBLE to BRING-ABOUT-CHANGES in the SYSTEM-OF-GOVERNANCE.

Think about that for a moment..!!

I BELIEVE BOTH RELIGION and OUR-GOVT were VOLUNTARY..!!

And anyway,somehow WE might be able to take the HORSE to the WATER,but SADLY WE can not make him/her/it DRINK the WATER..!!

There should not be compulsory voting but Govt. itself should administer in such a way that all are mentally forced to come to poling booth.Don’t think that Modi is correct.Have you gone through his web sites? Only those statements which praise him are accepted. If you ask to meet him personaly a Q mail will be received showing that on deciding the date & time you will be informed but till today despite of some request I have not received date& time. Is it democracy?
I am struggling for my town which is Prant H.Q. for eastern kachchh and Modi Govt. has decided to make police Dict to Gandhidham under eastern Prant because Modi relays on his MLA and unfortunately our MLA is from Gandhidham she never supports Anjar. We have wrote 8oo post cards, 8oo personal memorandums to Modi but not a single is replied. We kept our town closed for a day. We sent two to three memorandums to Modi, no reply!!! We asked two times to meet him personaly on this issue but no reply. We written so many letters but there is no reply till today. No departments of Government is ready to reply public letters how one can understand Modi a democrate ??? I am not a congressmen but the fact is this. DGP Mr. Khandawala is also indemocratic and not replying any letter. Even we go for RTI no information is given. This is nothing but a mass hypnotism which Modi has done.Congress is also under his hypnotism and not supporting me on this issue. When this situation is there who will go for voting? I may tell in my words:

yes, these people doesn’t want gujarat to create positive changes among pepoles in india. any way they don’t want mr. Modi to create any news. but sorry no one can stop hip to grow if he works for people.

let ask the people from guj or from any part of india who stay in gujarat which state is better for living , which state gives best job oppurtunity , which state govt. wroks for really for the people? and i m sure ans will be 100% gujarat.

i wish people should come out to street to protest aganist anti modi campaign and should fight for modi . ultimately Mr.Modi is for the people and by the people.

I don’t agree with Sudipta sen.The situation in Guajrat is from beginning which may be due to its location Gujaratis are simple .If Mr. Modi is for the people, ask him to answer the letters of people and meet applicants of Gujarat.

Governor is said to be highest constitutional post of the states in our democratic India. Governor must act to strengthen the democracy, but our Governors are puppet of central government and never acts with their soul or mind. At present our democracy is one way democracy. People want freedom of speech/act in all the aspects but in return they don’t want to be accountable further to strengthen our democracy. This bill is a step toward to strengthen our democracy. Someone argue that why should we vote to this cheater politician. But, I want to say that we have allowed making politician cheater by voting merely 50% on average since independent.

Congress played vote bank politics only since independence and if compulsory voting law would be there initially, congress vote bank tactics would have been averted and real democracy would be there and in that case our country would have been in different path today.

Recently the Governor of Gujarat rejected the Bill proposed by the BJP Administration lead By Mr Narendra Modi to make the voting compulsory. The issue hits at the heart of the debate about democracy and the right of an individual to decide to exercise their voting right at the elections. This reminded me of a story as told by my mentors.

During a heavy drought period, wise men persuaded a white social worker to do something to bring fresh water for the people in the village. The social worker followed his advice and got the authorities to install a pipe line and tap at the end of for people to have clean drinking water. The wise man convenience the villagers to work together to design a bucket to hold water.

Within no time, jealousy lead to stories that the old man was sold out and the Goresaheb was planning to slow poison them So, the villagers stopped using the water from the tap. Youngster were left free to use the bucket as a target practice and made lots of hole on it.

Years went by, then sever drought came back. No water in sight. People gathered around the pipe line. They worked night and day carefully to open the rusted tap. People cheered as they saw first drop of water coming out of the tap. They thanked the old man who was dead years ago for setting up of the pipe line. One of the learned men warned that the water will run out if not used carefully as it is drawn from a reservoir shared by other villages fifty miles away. So, a gong man went looking for the old bucket filled with the holes the villagers had made years ago. But, ah…it was no use! It could not hold water since the water dripped thorough the holes and disappeared into the sand. People panicked what to do? Some one came up with idea to put a plastic in the bucket. Good idea they said and awarded the men with the freedom of the village.

Now the bucket could hold water. As people thought their problems were over, suddenly a fight broke out in the village over what should they do with the water? Some wanted it for drinking water; others argue that it can be used for watering seeds in the farm to grow grain. Women thought men should clean themselves with the water to prevent infection and smell. In a massive feud they ripped off the pipe line and attacked each other. They trampled on the bucket to a turned it in to a flat metal plate. Some became so angry that they took apart the tap it self. Suddenly, the water stopped. They did not know that the clever engineers had designed a special valve at the source of the reservoir to prevent loss of water through unnecessary leakage. Villages began to feel thrust; they could not access the water even if they could repair the pipe and reinstall the tap.

Then a day came when a white man brought a franchise to the village – water in a tanker, sold them drinking water at a small price. Those who brought customers were give one glass of drinking water free of charge. Now people were happy, they say some one else is taking care of their problem. Over the time, the price increased became unbearable. The business was owned by a rich businessmen living in USA and they say people from the village go and work in the water processing plant that take water from the local reservoir.

The moral of the story is that it has taken years of hard work and ‘working together’ so that we have the democracy – a unique gift bestowed upon us by our leaders who fought for freedom.

We can talk about the countries where there is dictatorship – military or communal or one party state; all take away ‘people’s rights’. They are seen to be tough administrators with good organisational skills but lack respect for the people. Those who question ‘democracy’ or try to assess how it is working, let them spend few days in some of countries where democracy is an unheard ideology. Hitler burned religious books.

China, there is only one political party and you can’t own almost anything. In 1979, the Chinese government started the “one child per family policy where the citizens must obtain a birth certificate before the birth of their children. The citizens would be offered special benefits if they agreed to have only one child. Citizens who did have more than one child would either be taxed an amount up to fifty percent of their income, or punished by loss of employment or other benefits. Furthermore, unplanned pregnancies or pregnancies without the proper authorization would need to be terminated. More than two children, you will be fined and the sate takes away the child or force abortion!

They say the state provides food and shelter. True, if you are in prison you get free food, bed and shelter too! Those living in the box mentality, it would be an eye opener to visit some of the African and Islamic countries where the countries are controlled by tribal leaders virtually butcher their fellow citizens on communal and tribal politics.

Only when we lose freedom, we know how difficult it is to regain it. For a democracy to work, we need to understand the values of it and have the moral courage to respect the boundaries. And, we are what we make of it. Forcing people to vote defeats objective and it’s a draconian measure design to control rather than adding value to the democratic process. Once we take the slippery road, the politicians will stop at no point to control the people.

Actually what is the need of Governers in India.There is no need of governers in india.They are extra expense on common man.Their value is for one day only and that is when ministry takes oath.That can be done by chief justice of state.
So actually India don’t need these congressmen governers in india.

Dear Amit,I can see the patriotism in you through the few lines you have written.It is this patriotism which Modiji has in full measure and thats his strength-inspite of all the hardships-the criticisms he is forging ahead.Thank you Amit-your sentiments and appreciation has touched me and feel reassured that all is not in vain in this country.
Hilda Raja

Abul Meghani-thats a good suggestion.If only people start a mass campaign against the Governor’s returning the bill the message will go down.As you have rightly pointed out SMS and email to the Governor.-thank you for the comment
Hilda Raja

The Efforts of Mr.Modi’s government to bring forward this important issue, are commendable. Since long congress govts are enjoying the power on minority votes only every time percentage of votes are not high , they win . Its a fact and so if voting will be compulsory , then they know they cannot come to power. now, the Gujrat govt. can do what is in their hand- Give lots of sops to them who have voted. by proper checking system. All govt subsidies , and facilities to relate to this activity. All identification papers must have condition of voting – stamped or not. To give additional food By way of PDS to those who have voted etc. Apart from this Gujrat Govt still shy of publicity campaign of the development made in the state, Every person in this country must know the way the state had taken initiatives in all sectors and understand what a man of will can do in-spite of supressing measures from all ,central govt, many NGOs , CBI etc. Bravo Gujrat !!!

Mr. Prasad (comment-25), I don’t agree to the allegations laid by you. In my opinion, Narendra Modi is the leader who loves to interact with the masses. It’s very easy to reach to him through twitter, mails, his website and blog. Recently a student had put up a request for an appointment on twitter and Shri Narendra Modi met him. To him, his state and his people come first, even during his hectic schedule he has managed to find time for his people. Swagat Online, the grievance system developed by the state, where queries of people are resolved online, is one such successful example.

GUJARAT GOVERNOR RETURNED THE BILL SIMPLY BECAUSE HE IS A APPOINTEE OF CENTRE I.E. CONGRESS AND HE IS ANSWEREABLE TO MADAM SONIA ONLY AND GOVERNOR CAN DO NOTHING WHICH IS AGAINST CONG. WISHSES OTHERWISE HE WILL LOOSE HIS POST.

BILL MUST BE SENT AGAIN TO THE GOVERNOR. THERE NOTHING WRONG OR AGAINST ANY COMMUNITY/RELIGION IN THIS BILL. EVERYONE MUST VOTE AND WHO DOES NOT VOTE HE MUST BE CONSIDERED ENEMY OF DEMOCRACY. NARENDER MODI GOVT. MUST BE COMMENDED FOR INTRODUCING SUCH A BILL.

Reading your blog without reading your about me page is just a common write up which every one generally feels but don’t take pain to express.

The whole problem has a root lying in the motives of those who belong to churches.

Money from abroad and pretending of serve to mankind (medical help) are the two weapons holding the ammunition of Education
are being targeted on Hindus just to change the future of Hinduism.

Unless we Hindus do not stand against the western culture and media and such hidden agendas we are going to loose a lot. Under the leadership of congress leaders this is bound to happen in the background.

We must stand united irrespective of caste , creed and so on that divides we Hindus, and fight against it.

It is the net savvy generation of hindus can also contribute to fight againgst Hindus.

Thanks for writing so good. Keep writing and motivating others like me.

While the law in itself may be good, but will the law be effective? Anything acheived forcefully (voting included) reeks of fear and scams. Alternatively, Modi government should educate people to cast their votes without fail. First step in the right direction is to ensure that all eligible voters are listed on the elctoral roll, and none are conveniently missing. Education is the key to a fair election, and not a Stick and the Law, which can be (and surely will be) used to ones own advantage by so called ‘Desh bhakt’ politicians. While everyone is advocating freedom of speech…etc. the word itself is misunderstood by us all. Freedom means to act or choose as one wishes (albeit within the limits of the law of the land), cannot be acheived by any compulsion, not even to vote.

Each every one citizen’s duty to vote, if not doing duty Govt of India should make compulsory voting, nothing wrong to make complusory.All party should favour there should not be politics that this idea is submitted by BJP.

Reading your blog without reading your about me page is just a common write up which every one generally feels but don’t take pain to express.
The whole problem has a root lying in the motives of those who belong to churches.
Money from abroad and pretending to serve mankind (medical help) are the two weapons with the ammunition of Education
are being targeted on Hindus just to change the future of Hinduism.
Unless we Hindus do not stand against the western culture and media and such hidden agendas we are going to loose a lot. Under the leadership of congress leaders this is bound to happen in the background.
We must stand united irrespective of caste , creed and so on that divides we Hindus, and fight against it.
The net savvy generation of hindus can also contribute to fight those who are against Hinduism..
Thanks for writing so good. Keep writing and motivating others like me

Great, I liked it.
First time I got a message from your desk, which I feel, I should have known about you long back. Your vision of thinking and action will give motivation to this country and really I feel, there are people in this country who can voice against the wrongs.

In fact – in my language, I call this as DEMO CRAZY – as not seen any democratic norms other than in papers and talks. If the principle of Go with the majority or head count is called the Democracy’s base, if the head count start eating shit, will it come as a norms for every one to follow ?

The governance – a frame work to improve the systems and ruling is necessary for this country as today there is nothing as such as no one want to be ruled and no one is there to rule. All corrupts and goons. There was a governer who cant stand on his own foot is enjoying the great PROSTITUTIONISM at the cost of the public (ND Tiwari).

There was ministers who accummulated wealth (Sukhram) which doesn’t have spaceto store and finally shelved in Toilet room. There are many Ministers, Judges, Revenue heads – Commissioners – who made billions and no one knows what action has been taken against them.

If the government want to take action – who is to take and how. simple excuses of unions, humanity and unemployment for these frauds are coming and finally with a few days suspension, all are re-instated and these people will never change.

We have seen that the head of anti corruptions also caught red handed.
Is this not the flaws of law?

Why the Govt. cannot change the dirty rules and laws and amend them.?
Who ever is caught corrupt, punish them and remove their employment first.
Secondly, investigate all the cases handled by these officers and taken stern actions against the officers for the negligency towards the duty.
Stop the defferentiation of separationism in the name of cast / religion.
Religions are to be managed in home based on every individual and it should not come to the streets.
Educate the people on the basis of merits and Employ them on the merit basis.
It is the country of our people and every one should have equal rights and privileges.
Tharoor – Mody issue has came to a centre, which long back I said – Cricket is the biggest gambling and our hero’s name is already spelled out by the African cricketer – but our people and Government was silent on it. Yes- it is the biggest racket.

Once I asked a Goverment employee, after the elections, whom he voted. = that person is around 40 years – 10 years back – and he said, in his life time, he never casted his vote.
– I just told him, he dont have any rites to critisize the government and what ever get, accept and swallow.
– Why I said this is – as the only 45% is going to the booths is – those who are bothered of this country’s future and present are only wasting their day and goes to vote. Those who are enjoying the secured job of Govt., they are not least bothered to caste their votes as they have nothing to fear and always their job is secured.

So change this attitude – Govt makes it a holiday for the casting of Votes and compulsory rule to be made that – every one votes. In govt. departments, those who dont cas’t their votes, cut their increment and promotions as they must obey the rules of the Governance.

your male is inspiring and needs to spread to all corners. Thanks to the modern systems and telecommunications, which made us thinks as closer.

Everyone must realize one fact that Congress was creation of British Christians. Congress has since 1885, played politics and unfortunately it has played politics with the nation and not for the nation which resulted in partition resulting in genocide of millions of people with faith native to the nation and especially of the people who braved all external attacks on our nation. Congress is now also playing politics with nation as we see the demographical changes taking place on our border areas and open support for separatism by people like Geelani, Arundhati Roy who is a Christian and open supporter of Naxalism. Congress has doctored school books to glorify Christianity originated thought processes and also doctored constitution to make it SECULAR which is next stage of mental development of the Christian world and gives the missionaries right to propagate religion. No wonder that it stuck down the bill of people of our nation under aegis of Colonial Politics taught, mentored and tutored by Britishers. Shame on the governor the political tool of Congress government at center. Massive protests should be held to demonstrate the suppression of good governance by the stooge of Congress and Congressi politicians.

Voting must be made compulsory with a leverage for the mass to cast their votes in favor or against or not to vote in favor of any candidate / party in form of VOID/NEGATIVE vote but the mass should vote.

The bill moved by Hon Narendrabhai is quite justified considering the fact that people don’t exercise their fundamental rights and sit tight and give comments on their candidates / any party / administration provided by any Government for that sake.

This bill will certainly ensure that people come out freely and give a glimpse of their thoughts in form of vote which as we all know is always secret yet reveals the temperament and mentality of people for or against any candidate/party/Government.

The Hon Governor must accept this proposal and approve the bill.Gujarat has been pioneer over past couple of years in coming out with many innovative schemes and proposals for the benefit of people. Then why not Gujarat become the PATHWAY for other states and the nation with regard to compulsory voting.

If one visits other states governed by Congress or any other party the difference can be very easily judged between the Able administration coupled with Schemes benefitting the people of Gujarat as provided by one of the ever Best C.M (Common Man), Hon Shri Narendra Modi ji viz-A- Viz other CM’s.

The path to growth and Success over the past couple of years is JUST STUPENDOUS in Gujarat

The quality life lead by the people of Gujarat over the past few years has improved manifold.

The way even the lower middle class live with own house / Vehicles etc.. required for a comfortabel life can be very easily looked at and arrive at a conclusion of the extraordinary governance provided by Narendrabhai.

One more point mentioned as below is of great importance for the people of India to rethink!

“Equality is a Right in the Constitution but why has the GOI segmented people on religious basis for benefits?”

Before making voting compulsory Govt. should keep its yard clean i.e. 100% voters must be issued voter I card. If I tell my story. We are 5 members in our family. We three i.e. myself,my wife and my sister have got Voter I card but the address is wrongly written. My elder son when got major we got his voter I card but with the same mistake. Then my younger son applied for voter I card but when we received that card his name was not written properly and wrong address as usual, he refused to receive, the concerned govt. staff went away there after I wrote so many times but no reply. I wrote to Collector (D M) Mamlatdar, State Chief Election Officer Anandibahen the Minister but from no where I received any reply.Then I asked the matter under RTI but no reply.I had appealed to Information Commissioner then Mamlatdar called me and forced me to give in writing that I was fully satisfied with the talk with Mamlatdar and he informed that in near future i.e. month or two there will correction program and your matter will be over. to day is months passed till no electoral roll correction program is not declared.I had written that why you have paid to concerned contractor for such incorrect voter I card but I should not comment for other matters which may be between revenue department and contractor.Hence my opinion is that first of all totally correct voter I cards must be issued then compulsory voting should be thought for. Though I am against compulsory voting.
Tanks.
L.V.Vora

Mr Modi should keep doing the good work he is doing. If people of gujarat did not like his work and ideas for future, he would have been thrown out a long time ago. But, Him being in the position for a such a long time. Doesn’t matter what the central government is trying to do, They can not break the will of people of gujarat. The modernization of business, sucial and government entities with in gujarat at all level will put the state of gujarat ahead of most of asian states.

HI,
seems like people fighting whether it should be made compulsory or not..
The simplest answer to this is.” You cant expect mangoes at your home without contributing to plantation of mango tree”.
As a citizen, we always face problems like road, water, traffic, pollution and bla bla..
Now after we have faced these problems, we simply have a solution of blaming the government saying all awkward things about them.. (U all know what they are).
And Then we dont even have one day in all 5 years where we can stand and actually elect the person that is goin to make a difference to our life for another 5 years.
What do you do (as a boss in organisation) to an employee who does n’t perform or even arrives at office?
What do you do (to a maid/servant) if he does n’t turn to your work daily?
… There are many such questions and answer is very clear. BUT when it comes to Democracy, we say the complete responsibility is of government and we are totally irresponsible.
Further, we have all sort of excuses like flood, illness for that very right which we have been given luckily.

I, personally am very happy to see a keen initiative of a State in INDIA that has actually thought of this great work for the people, by the people and of the people because even if we are driven by force(as in childhood our parents do it for our good) in some matter, finally it will lead to a better state, better society and better nation. Seeing this, other states and our nation too will have such a bill one day.

Without going into the debate about compulsory voting, it is high time we brush up our knowledge of political science. In Grammar of Politics, Prof. Harold Lasky wrote before many decades that Every Right has Corresponding Obligation on part of the citizen in Democracy. Now, if we want the rights of various kinds, then it is our duty to fulfill the obligations. It cannot be once sided game. Among such persons who only speak about the rights and conveniently forget their duties and responsibilities, we Indians may be standing in Front Line, all the time talking about our rights and what others have failed to fulfill.

2. Besides, we are very clever to find excuses for our failures. When we do not go to the polling booth to vote which is our Birth Right, those among us will conveniently find suitable reasons to file, if voting is made compulsory.

3. Since Mahatma Gandhiji and other National leaders brought Independence to our country, we have not realised the value of Independence and Liberty. Had there been great strife and struggle, blood shed etc. and we had to live under supression of every kind, perhaps we would better understand its meaning.

4. Political parties have also contributed their might for voter apathy and indifference, in so much as they promise the world before election and conveniently forget to sincerely implement, or at least try to implement the Election Agenda.

5. When one state, like Gujarat want to awaken the citizens from proverbial lethargy of Indians, setting an example there is hue and cry about individual liberty and Fundamental Right.

6. Perhaps the better way to introduce continual citizens education programme so that people go out of their homes and vote on Issue Base Election rather than merely meekly following the tradition like sheep, viz. GADARIA PRAVAAH. Our Inertia is much to blame rather than our Enlightened Political Consciousness.

7. Lord Acton said long ago, “Power Corrupts, and Absolute Power Corrupts Absolutely”. It is our bounden duty to stop it. Also, We Get the Government We Deserve. So who is responsible for our plight? We ourselves.

8. Last but not the least, though Gujarat as a state has made enviable progress in 50 years, irrespective of the political party in power, it has always been an envied state in India. We should search for her match in many aspects of progress and quality of social, economic life. Those who cannot match with her would naturally announce, ” The Grapes are Sour”.

9. Whether opponents of Gujarat honestly accept or not, Gujarat was, is and will continue to be the torch bearer of all round progress in years to come.

10. Gujaratis in all political parties have to get together and celebrate her Golden Jubilee now.

11. All concerted steps should be taken to motivate, encourage citizens to come out and vote in large numbers.

I do hope that at least there is some debate on whether there should be compulsory voting and it will awaken us from deep sleep of inertia.

Thank you-very sensible approach to the whole issue.And very appropriate suggestions you have made.Yes grapes are sour as you stated and it seems that Gujarat is the envy of the country because it tops them all.So bash Modi in good and bad-thats what the Congress is out for.Had this suggestion of compulsoy voting come from Rahul Gandhi the media would have projected him as the champion of democracy and he would be listed as one of the world’s topmost leader -thats the way things are in India today.
All the best to you.
Hilda Raja

Voting should be compulsory.
Those who don’t vote they should give acceptable reason for the same otherwise there other rights will be minimized.
Those who votes- they should get incentive-as their issue should be taken with priority.

Dr. Kamla & EC Chawal are puppet of Congress Govt. and follows their orders blindly. These are greedy opportunist corrupt beurocrats. There no Rights of Free Speech for Hindus. As long as we have parties with colonized mindset, India will remain country of Pseudo Secular parties. M. F. Hossain can insult Hindus but when a Hindu reporter criticized Christians (Meghalaya), he was thrown in jail!

Voting is a duty for all Indians, if we want to experience “real development”, we will have to elect OUR representatives. Unless the majority of the population votes for their candidate, we cannot have a true representative of the people.

Thinking about duties, we all have duties to perform. duties towards self, family, society, work etc. Why do we forget duty towards the nation too. Treating voting as a duty and following it seriously can prove to be a much needed solution.

We never get punished for non-fulfillment of our duty towards our family or society, but the feeling of guilt cannot be discarded. Added to the guilt factor is that we run the risk of losing our rights in the family or society also. A similar feeling towards voting can be brought about. Just like non-payment of Taxes It evokes guilt in people and also strips them of some of their rights if proved guilty, voting may be given a similar kind of treatment.

Though, I am not in complete agreement with the above “compulsory voting”, In my opinion, the punishment part is a little too strict and it can be dealt with as a minor offence. It has been an eye-opener and can be instrumental in increasing the effectiveness of democracy.

I think, if assempbly passes this bill again and sends back, Governer has to approve it. Otherwise, all points you have mentioned are valid.
Whatever happens, Gujarat will go on the path of development at any cost and in any situation too, rest assured.

A person holding highest position in a State should know about constitutional duties too. One of the Constitutional duty of the citizen is ” to develop the scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform ” Why the Governor not looking at her duty as well as and applying her scientific temper for the reform ?

Thanks to the Governer of Gujarat for returning the bill unsigned
for compulsory voting to be introduced in Gujarat. Voting is a right of an individual but at the same time it is left to his descretion whether to vote or not. I, donot vote even at the age of 67 because I dont find any suitable candidate about whom I am aware of his loyalty and integrity towards the nation.

Instead of making voting compulsory, the government should emphasise on educating people more on casting their vote to a
right person.

Gujarat governor has did un-democratic move by sending back the compulsory voting bill of Gujarat assembly.

Governor is said to be highest constitutional post of the states in our democratic India. Governor must act to strengthen the democracy, but our Governors are puppet of central government and never acts with their soul or mind. At present our democracy is one way democracy. People want freedom of speech/act in all the aspects but in return they don’t want to be accountable further to strengthen our democracy. This bill is a step toward to strengthen our democracy. Someone argue that why should we vote to this cheater politician. But, I want to say that we have allowed making politician cheater by voting merely 40/50% on average since independent.

Congress played vote bank politics only since independence and if compulsory voting law would be there initially, congress vote bank tactics would have been averted and real democracy would be there and in that case our country would have been in different path today.

In India Congress party wants to impose its own agenda; they think that whatever they do is good for the country. Their policies rotten India roots, they go to any extent to do with their agenda; even politicising the governor’s post. It is like indirect monarchy. If they fail to get power in particular state, they put their right hand people in the governor’s post, so that they can prevent other party ruled states doing any good. I feel that it is high time to depart with the governor’s post.

I fully agree with the writer.it is a joke on the will of the people and must be challanged in appopriate courtr of law and parliament .congress has history of betraying people and long years of Sanyas from power after Pv Narsima Rao, thay have still not learnt their lesson.they have been using the same policy as britishers ,dividing the country in the name of religion,region an d appesment of minorities.people must come togather and retire this tired and corrupt party a lesson by defeating it in elections

Excellent commentary Dr. Hilda Raja. Remember reading your posts in Indian Express, Chennai. Nothing much has changed in your posts – succinct and to the point, as always.

Coming to the post, it’s high time Universal Adult Franchise was made compulsory. Else, having elections is a farce. Only 40-50% of the total population voting and the winner is one who has 40-50% of those votes (roughly translating into 20-25% of the eligible electorate) forming a government, which is not representative.

That’s why we get the government we deserve. Coming to Modi, I was there in Vadodara for a year and felt the administration excellent. The government at the centre is doing all it can to de-stabilise a legally voted government, but the people have been seeing through the game and choosing the right leadership. We have no objection to minorities being given concessions, but trying to undermine the majority (who themselves are fools and need to take share of the blame) is not acceptable. Thugs like MF Hussain, Mohd Azharuddin, Dawod are going scot free while genuine well wishers of the country are being hounded out and tortured.

The government at the Centre and the Congress has to be thrown out of the country forever. We need to have leaders who don’t mind sacrificing their lives and family for the country rather than crooks like Sonia (who let Q get away with Bofors money)

thank you Ramesh.I go along with all that you have stated and I hope others will realise what you have realised.We will get the kind of government we deserve.It is thus necessary that we participate.May your tribe increase.
Hilda Raja

Hello,
Dr Mrs Hilda Raja…Let me first note ur Daring nature and Rationality to Indians/Gujarat.
Perhaps Almighty might propose something special to those who become part & partial to delay/downing progress/ betterment of certain class of Indians who do not have longsightedness of their own. I don’t know why Congress do not have patience to wait for good to have start-up of some good policy.
Modiji has Longsightedness fro betterment of Indians.Someone has said “Wining is not so important but putting full efforts to win and stay in battle is more important”…This is what Modiji is exercising for Indians.
May GOD give him strength and Power for us to become self sufficiant.
I fully agree with compulsory voting.

Thank you Hens Patel.I too fervent pray that your prayer comes true.As you so well said winning is not inmportant but putting in all efforts is important.It is necessary to go down struggling and die rather than stand up and surrender.It is this outlook which is necessary to hold on when looking at the compulsory voting bill.We need to try and make democracy valid and really democratic by making people participate.How do we bring about that without some sort fo force….we force children to go to school and we force people to follow traffic rules etc.so your inputs have gone a long way shoring up such a premise.All the best to you.
Hilda Raja

YOUR ARTICLE IS VERY LOGICAL AND EYE OPENER. BUT, NONE THE LESS, IN DEMOCRACY VOTING CAN NOT BE MADE COMPULSORY, BECAUSE BY PERCENTAGE PATTERN OF VOTING ONE CAN FIND OUT MINDSET OF PEOPLE ENJOYING / FAVORING THIS DEMOCRACY. IN MY OPINION PEOPLE / GOVERNMENT WHERE VOTING IS LESS THAN 60 % DO NOT DESERVE DEMOCRACY AND INDIRECTLY AGREES THAT THEY ARE NOT FIT FOR IT. SO SOME ALTERNATE RULING METHODOLOGY HAS TO BE DEVISED. MY PERSONAL FEELING IS THAT 75% OF OUR POPULATION DOES NOT DESERVE DEMOCRACY AND WHICH THEY PROVE BY THEIR VOTING PATTERN OR LETHARGY TO VOTE !

Ashwin Guhya-what you said is true that 75 % of the population do not deserve democracy-but it is like which came first the chicken or the egg.It is this 75 percent that is also enjoying the advantages or disadvantages of democracy andwhether we like it or not then we cannot call it a democracy that is a big deception.Hence we need to try and make voting compulsory at least at the local level-lets start.In the name of democracy the country is being looted and everything is free for all.Some accountability will come if people take more interest and participate.Then they will start questioning also.This indifference will drag the country down.We need to stem this downward pull.All the best to you and thanks for our inputs
Hilda Raja

cmon, your comparison are so wierd. The eldest member of the family says something and the others do not care, you are trying to control 1 billion people. What MODI is doing is something which HITLER tried and then committed suicide. Gujarat Governement has done ot of blunders and also good, so everything what they
say need not be followed. Introspect- our country has grown and
in the last 25 years we are progressing at a fast pace, appreciate this and be pro-active.
Criticise or combat is never a solution.

What is weird Sir,Your comparison of Modi to Hitler I condemn and reject totally-shows your bias.He is not dictating to the one billion people.He is only offering something to make democracy more virbant and valid at the grassroot level.How can that be compared to distatorship.It is just the Opposite.In fact now what we got is a few running the show in the name of democracy and you don’t mind following that dictatorship.Why simulate democracy when we do not even care to vote.As we have rights so too voting is a right.You can go and even reject all the candidates.But you need to participate if you want to call it democracy.
You please reject the suggestion but you cannot compare Modi to Hitler.I think you cross the limits of debate and discussion by making such comparisons.I am sorry.I respect your view-namely that you are against compulsory voting.But that is not coming through-but your prejudice against Modi is coming through.That is the problem.Had Rahul Gandhi made the suggestion that voting must be made ciompulsory then you and others woukld have hailed him as the upholder of demoracy and its values.Simple because it comes from Modi’s government the governor returned it,.This is the fact and is also reflected in the views expressed above.
Hilda Raja

Without politicizing the issue between parties, I would like to suggest that we should definitely make the voting “compulsory” for all eligible citizens of the country. However, making this compulsory in the present form of elections would also be forcing a person to choose between people who he/she think are not capable enough. So we should also insert one candidate called “None of the Above” in the ballot paper – so that we have a right NOT to choose who we do not like but at the same time exercise our right to franchise.

At present times we have very few true leaders like Modi left in India who can lead from front but its sad and fact that even Lord Ram and Gandhiji are abused in this country so Modi is just an ordinary good person so he has to face corrupt & fools who themselves do not know how to progress but can give big lectures

These are all pseudo secularists. Mr. Narendra Modi has always been targeted by such pseudos. But all the time he has been victorious only becoz all gujaratis are with him. We all are with you Mr. Modi. United we stand.

Its high time that all true Indians, of any cast & creed stop this politicians from fooling us. They way our foreign issues are being tackled is pathetic. Why are we behaving cowardly & sesking USA’s advice even to go for toilet.

When Indians were attacked in AUstrial, their PM clearly told that we never invited you to our county, you have decided tos stay here. So it u want to stay follow our laws.

We should be the same. Chalo jago support this compalsory voting as this lazy praja of India will neven wake up. If you dont spare 5 mions & vote now, time is near when we would be outsiders in our county.

You are right.Vishal Shah
Now China has built a dam across the Bramaputra and the Congress spokesman is saying that it is a small wall built by china! But why-they will not indulge in child play.Water will be drawn underground through pipes and the PM and his office was not even aware of it till China declared it.So it goes to prove what you stated is right-the way we are handling our foreing affairs is awful-we show no courage and guts.We are too indifferent and this compulsory voting is only at the local level to try and awaken people.If it succeeds then we can bring it to the higher level.Simple because Modi’s government has proposed it it needs to be rejected.What is Rahul Gandhi had lobbied for compulsory voting.He would have been hailed as the champion of democracy.Thats the way things work in India

the best way to overcome this governor nod is, those who have the voting card they should be given unique identification number through which they can vote online, there should be a password to auntheciate the voter identity, if once online voting through computer is allowed then see the difference in voting percentage as more and more literate and middle class people who dont vote on voting day and enjoy picnic will have some responsibility towards the state or the country and wiill vote without hesitant to the best of the person,centre is always jealous of gujarat progress as they dont have anything to show to public regarding thier achievement on any development in contry, where todays gujarat is something we are proud of showing to the world, and to all psedo secularist people just remember one thing if gujarat has prosper in modi rule, so have the entire community and all religion people of the state have progress

Well done Dr Mrs Hilda Raja. You have really hit the right drums and these drums have made a hole in congress image. These people have ruled us for so many decades, but result is in front of us. Our country is a soft target for terrorists.

I am sure if our Respectable NAMO JI would have been the PM we would not have faced 26/11 or any other blast.

I dont know why when one person does a good thing in full strength, the majority of so called secularist in our INDIA try to oppose him with fullest possible efforts. But this time let me tell you it is our NAMO JI powered with BRAHMAJI VISHNUJI & SHIVJI. He is son of MAA JAGDAMBA and a icon of people of GUJARAT, no body can dare touch him, if anybody does so, people of GUJARAT will not tolerate it.

Thank you Niten Patel.I appreciate your spirit and your determination.I really endorse all that you have stated–especially the last sentence-“nobody can dare touch him and if anybody doesso,the people of Gujarat will not tolerate it.”That was a good one.I hope this detreimination spreads and there is a ground swell support for Modi in this.
Regards,
Hilda Raja

How nice it would be if only we could get people like you to stand for election?
Atleast for one reason, everybody should vote. It will prevent someone from misusing my vote! Secondly we get the right to question and check only if we fulfill our duty.
Do those of us who oppose compulsory voting have any other suggestion to make everybody vote, in order to have a meaningful democracy? Pl don’t say if politicians behave in such a manner….., we have no time to wait. Thank you.

Feel happy to meet you on this page!Your point is very valid-someelse will not misuse your vote.But thats one of the reasons for opposing!So you then only at least in the third recount a few more one and get and be declared elected.Duty consciousness has slipped away.And again that is a very crucial area.We need to become conscious of our duties and obligations.Otherwise we have no business to find fault.The country is on a drag down and this has to be arrested only with the active participation of the people.This is the first step.Yous points were really good.Thank you.
Hilda Raja

Dear Saravanan I am really happy to read your comment-after all I cannot deny the fact that I too look for approval and in this case not for my person but for something which aims at improving democracy.Too long we have have been indifferent-it suits the politicans so that in the third round of recounts they will win by a few votes!
Thank you for the praise that I make you proud as an Indian.I hope to continue living up to be a true patriotic Indian till the last breathe of my life.

This blog is seen by so many not out of self interest but by forwardings ,thro, vested interests. All the people who are responsible here, and concerened, cannot do anything to change.The majority in India is not inclined in seeing this ,because they wish for progress at the cost of others. HYPOCRACY THY NAME IS ………
So, in this country,Politics and cricket have the highest attractions. Where there is a pollite politics,with the concept of growth for people, which is called dharma, then people balnce the country,its culture and concepts. Yatha Raja Thatha Praja, so, Judges will rule the roost,as per LAW,of that day.
Can you advice the present day parents of cyberlinks, the best ways of rearing the children? No. They know everything. So do every one. Gopinath will say change yourself, meaning, you get out of the groove.
I could appreciate your ROUDRAM of SUBRAMANYA BHARATHI. But we will only die like him and breeze away without traces.
May be I think aloud, A village should know each other genuinely and to some extent will react silently. Villagers are afraid of towns only.Suppose each village could elect one good soul and the so many good souls ,could elect a better personality,from each territory,as well as answerable to the village and the country, may be an assembly and a parliment can be created. The assembly member will continue to be a parliment member also, so that, the power of consistent policy can be floated. After all the total sittings in both council today is only number of days ,so that the year can be shared in both council and they willbe busy for the people by the people and of the people. Recall power will settle the public as awatch dog. So many election executives and volume of money and corruption can be saved. One condition is the proof of corruption will send the members for 60 yrs prison term. Its utopia and again politician will not bring about and courts and the executives will not allow it. God Bless the country

No need of Governor’s post in India. It is an extra burden for common man. They are puppet in the hands of centre. Now Dr Kamla is trying to implement congress, especillay soniya’s hidden agenda in Gujarat. Gujarat Govt. should send again bill to Governor.

Dear Monoharan I too think as you-no need for Governor’s post.It is nto only an extra burden for the people as you stated but brings in shame and engages in anti-constitutional activites.Raj Bhavans have even become dens for sex workers….and all this at the cost of the poor tax payer..All wishes to you
Hilda Raja

i HAD GIVEN MY BRIEF REACTIONS ON THIS SUBJECT IN DESH GUJARAT A FEW DAYS BACK.

AN EXCELLENT WELL THOUGHT OUT LETTER TO HEAD OF A STATE ON A MOST IMPORTANT MATTER AFFECTING NOT ONLY TODAY GUJARAT STATE ,BUT THIS SO CALLED DEMOCRATIC COUNTRY OF SAY 25 ODD STATES, POPULATION OF 1300 MILLION PEOPLE(130 CRORES)..
ITS NOT A QUESTION OF BJP STATE, NARENDRA MODI, ETC ETC, TODAY IT INVOLVES GUJARAT &GUJARATIS, BUT IT HAS SERIOUS IMPLICATIONS FOR EVERY INDIAN.DID THE GREAT MAHATMA BAPUJI FIGHT & GOT US FREEDOM, FOR PEOPLE NOT TO PARTICIPATE INTHE AFFAIRS OF THE COUNTRY.

IFSO, WHATS THE DIFF BETWEEN INDIA & COUNTRIES LIKE CHINA,EVEN THE PRESENT RUSSIA, THE OLD SOVIET BLOC, NAMIBIA,UNDER MUGABE, MYANMAAR, MANY AFRICAN COUNTRIES ETC. CAN WE TAKE COVER UNDER CONSTITUTION IN A WRONG WAY, & SAY ITS OUR FREEDOM NOT TO VOTE
, SHOCKING, IRRESPECTIVE OF WHO THE GOVERNOR IS, APPOINTED BY UPA, OR NDA, THE GOVERNOR MUST RESPECT THE BILL PASSED IN THE ASSEMBLY, THAT TOO BY A GOVT ELECTED FOR 3 CONSECUTIVE TERMS UNDER THE SAME C.M. DOES IT MEAN THE GOVERNOR DOES NOT RESPECT THE STATE PEOPLES VERDICT.

IF PEOPLE DONOT VOTE THEY DONT DESERVE DEMOCRACY, SOME ASPECTS CAN BE ALTERED ,TWEEKED LIKE PUNISHMENT FOR NOT VOTING, 50% FOR WOMEN ETC, BUT THE ESSENTIALITY THAT ALL CITIZENS, ESPECIALLY IN A COUNTRY WHICH IS DEMOGRAPHICALLY YOUNG IS UNPARDONABLE.DEMOCRACY IS “FOR THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE, & OF THE PEOPLE, CAN ONLY WORK IF ATLEAST 85% OF PEOPLE VOTE.,

i FEEL THIS IS NOT PARTY VS PARTY, BUT FOR PEOPLE OF INDIA, IRRESPECTIVE OF POLITICAL AFFLATIONS, RELIGION, CASTE ,CREED, & GENDER, WE NEED TO LEAD THE WORLD IN 10 TO 15 YEARS, THIS IS THE WAY, OR ELSE WHAT IS PROGRESS, INDIFFERENCE TO ELECTIONS CANNOT BE PROGRESS.

ESSENTIALLY SUCH IMPORTANT ASPECTS GO WELL BEYOND CONFINEMENTS OF LEGAL & CONSTITUTIONAL PARAMETERS, WHICH ARE AGAIN MAN MADE, WHICH NEED TO BE MODIFIED AS COUNTRY GROWS.

Anything/everything done by Mr.Modi without going into the merits of his deeds is anethema to many in this country. My only request to Shri.Modi is that he ignore all these and proceed with his set agenda for development of this country.

200 percent correct-anything and everything done by Modi is wrong and has to be rejected and criticised by the Congress and the governor is its appointee.People have seen the game play and will reject the Congress and its coterie this time also.Thank you Kumar Swaminathan-best wishes
Hilda Raja

Even in one constituency, people may not know about candidate’s credentials and past work. On that basis, you cannot expect one to come to the fore and vote compulsorily. If commitments made during election are not fulfilled, people are not supposed to vote and it indicates that they have no confidence in any candidate.

It is candidate’s work or progress made during his/her tenure that will force people to vote. Because if people want progress and are satisfied with candidate, they will definitely go and vote for him/her.

Thanking you,

Note: Views expressed here are personal and strictly not against anyone or politically motivated.

First of all let me convey you that your article was sent to me by someonis who forwarded to me, it certainly did not encrotch my privacy nor space rather it a enlihtening experiance for me and like me to many others except Mr Bhardwaj.i
Talking about Democracy in India Lets try to ascertain truely is it really vibrant and valid ? Are elected representatives truely representing people ?

Voting percentage in election is generally between 40 to 65 % . So average is never more than 52 to 55 % Total votes casted are divided between 10 to 15 candidates.

Person elected hardly gets 30 % of total 55 % votes casted. That means person declared “won” is preferred by only 16.5 % of people who can vote or onversly he represents only 16.5 % of people

What a Joke ?????
Under such a condition if Mr Narendra Modi has mooted an idea of compulsury voting would atleast create a situation whereby Elected person can be considered a relatively better representative of People in his constituency.

Of course option of Negative Vote must also be incorporated which would give a true feedback of Pulse of People’s opinion.

Thank you Udyan Kumar for the clarification.I appreciate your views.After all we can always learn and acquire more insights.My only plea is that democracy must be made more vibrant.People are taking it easy and hence not putting in effort.If they put in some effort then they will also demand thigns to be done and if not done they can show their strong resentment by negative votes.Look at the type of politicans the country is throwing up and that through demoracy and an eye wash of an election.Most of the MPs,ministers,CMs are corrupt.It is a question of who has the largest number iof corrupt persons in each partythats what is being debated.This because people are indifferent and hence easily taken for a ride.Thank you for your response-all the best to you,
Hilda Raja

compulsory voting is not tenable, it assumes atleast one party is paragon of virtue worthy of getting vote…no one is god to decide that & dictatorially force voter- for example

a> we find not a single party is pursuing the $144 billion indian black money in swiss bank which even PM admitted is true amount. while farmers are dying of starvation……… no party is virgin mary
NB: if that money is brought back indian economy is as big as china!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! no pipe dream
b> thanks to too much opposition bitching about bofors [which they themselves could not prove during vajpayee rule] no modern weapons were bought for our army & today China is daring to bully us…….

I am interestingly reading article post on for Gujarat govt. and Modi. Can Hilda Raja or anyone clarify about samras scheme how it can be beneficial? Gujarat govt. is on the way for compulsory voting, samras scheme is consensus without voting in panchayat. Reply your view on: aliens@dataone.in

*NGO study shows majority of panchayats under the scheme have not internalised its essence*

Is Narendra Modi’s much-hyped Samras (Consensus) Scheme, which was intended to harmonise and smoothen the democratic process at the village level, negating its own raison d’etre for manipulative politics? An NGO study of the scheme hints at that.

The Samras Scheme provides for the unanimous selection of a sarpanch of a village panchayat instead of electing one. The idea behind the scheme is to do away with conflict and disagreement of any nature in the villages. The state government asserts that the scheme removes enmity in a village.

An analytical study of the scheme by a network of NGOs like Marag and Mahila Swaraj Abhiyan (MSA), which have been working in the field since the inception of the scheme in 2006, has revealed some of the major pitfalls of the scheme. The study was conducted in about 200 Samras villages across 12 districts (Dahod, Panchmahals, Anand, Surendranagar, Sabarkantha, Kutch, Surat, Amreli, Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Patan and Bhavnagar).

Under the scheme, a Samras village with a population above 5,000 receives an incentive of Rs 1 lakh, while villages with a population between 5,000 and 15,000 receive Rs 1.5 lakh as incentive money. A village that appoints a woman draws an incentive of Rs 7 lakh. Moreover, a village that goes the Samras way for the second time receives an additional 25 per cent over the incentive money.

The study included 40 all-women panchayats (22 in Ahmedabad, 15 in Baroda and 3 in Kutch), while 95 percent of the women chosen in Samras never went to the first meeting after taking charge and were not aware of the incentive. Nearly 84 per cent of the marginalised group (Dalits and
adivasis) do not believe that elections cause confrontations or competition.
This is against the logic of the scheme.

No less than 32.3 per cent members of the marginalised group said that they wanted to stand for elections, but could not due to Samras. The place where the decision of the Samras was taken was pointed out to be the temple by
15.8 per cent and the sarpanch’s home by 97 per cent of members of the panchayat body. While 75.8 per cent of the marginalised group was aware of the decision being taken at the temple, only 8.5 percent knew about meetings held at the sarpanch’s house.

Thirty three percent of the panchayat body members and 32.3 per cent of the marginalised group members said that the Samras Scheme was adopted for financial benefit. Nearly12.4 per cent of the panchayat body and 4.2 per cent of the marginalised group believe that the reason was due to no elections in many years. Interestingly, none of the panchayat members said that the reason was to contain power within a certain community; 14 per cent of marginalised group believe so.

Only 13.4 per cent panchayat body and 20 per cent of the marginalised group believe that Samras is held to avoid disputes, while 20 per cent of panchayat body members are clueless about the reason.

When contacted on Monday, Principal Secretary (Panchayat and Rural
Development) Varesh Sinha told Newsline, “I have not seen the survey report so I cannot comment on it.”

Voting should be made mandatory.It is a right step by Shri Narendra Modi, though he may or may not stand to gain.The step is above petty politics and I whole heartedly suport.

As regards blogs about secularism, “Secularism” by default has begun to mean pampering of so called ‘minorities’. Vested interests want Shri Narendra Modi on trial for Godhra episode but before that the people of India want justice for Kasmiri pandits.More than 2.5 lakhs have been forced to leave their home state,they have been humiliated,raped,tortured and left at mercy of situation.Where are the bloody secularists?
Conversions are carried on with impunity and they say secularism.

To all the “Secularists” :

That time has now passed and sons of the motherland have awakened and are now capable enough to retaliate back and avenge any insult to religion of this land.

The problem arises here when no one understands the broader prospects of duty. In spite of progress, India leg behind in efficiency, discipline, humanity because of their failure to perform duty honestly and sincerely. Apart from their job duty, one must show alertness towards their duty for family, society, village/town/city, state, nation and by that way contribute to strengthen the democracy. One side you said that it is right certainly for people to vote, but not considering it as duty! To franchise vote is one kind of job or duty only all citizen should perform. When the employee working in the office and perform his duty, it is his right to get remuneration for his job/duty or those who want right to get remuneration must perform their job/duty. Same way, citizen has right to enjoy the fruit of democracy and right to franchise their vote must perform their duty to go to polling booth and fulfill it. Else, if he fails in his duty his franchise right can be taken back or restrict their right or punishable. Same as if someone does not work, loses his right of remuneration or punishable or loses his job. On one side you agree that voting percentage should increase, but don’t want to make any effort towards it. It is not true that education can increase voting percentage. If you can make survey, you will find non-voters are mainly educated only.

WHO ARE NOT VOTING SINCE INDEPENDENCE OR NOT VOTED FOR MAJORITY OF TIME FOR WHATEVER REASON HAS NO RIGHT TO ARGUE THAT INDIAN DEMOCRACY HAS FAILED, SINCE THEY DID NOT PARTICIPATED IN DEMOCRATIC PROCESS. WHEN YOU WANT FREEDOM OF SPEECH/ACT, MUST SHOW ACCOUNTABILITY IN RETURN BY WAY OF PERFORMING FRANCHISE RIGHT OR DUTY, ELSE YOU MUST GIVE UP YOUR FREEDOM.

thanks for your consent with my views. I am member of sarai.net where carry out political discussions. When I kept above point and strongly kept my views on compulory voting, someone argued about samras panchayt scheme where in villages election is not carried out, but leader chosen by consensus. please read following link.http://www.indianexpress.com/news/narendra-modis-samras-scheme-has-chinks-galore/449446/2
After reading this article it seems that this scheme failed or much more opposition. Please have your views

125.Ganesh borana | April 25, 2010 at 12:05 pm

voting are compulsary in the country becase country is progess in the world

I used to see your letters to editor in ‘The Hindu’ some time back.After being an ardent reader of this paper for almost 35 years I stopped reading it when I felt it had lost objectivity and became a Congress/CPM paper.
I was happy to read your observations.As far as Congress is concerned anything done by Narendra Modi must be wrong and hence every thing must be done to put a spoke . Look at the Unique Identity Card Scheme.This was actually proposed by LK Advani when he was Home Minister in order to prevent illegal entry of Bangladeshis and Pakistanis.A hue and cry was raised by Congress saying it was against minorities and the scheme was scuttled.And now the same is being implented by this GOvt as if it a novel idea.
There is no salvation for this country as long as we are ruled one’ family

Dear Reddy, You have pointed out very good point of UID origin. Please read bellow will be interes of you

Secularist have proved that what they care about is not justice, but their own vanity. India’s humbug secularists have personalized the definition of secularism for narrow political ends. Why is anyone who promotes Gujarat an instant target for secularists? This is ideological tyranny.

Unfortunately in India, only those are counted as secular who speak for or create show to speak for minority.

Can anyone explain who is communal and who is secular? Of course congress has proved pseudo-secular in many occasions earlier. But, this time they have proved communal and also once again proved their dirty vote bank tactics/politics. Every one blame or rather fashion to blame BJP as communal party, but congress is also communal party. How?

They think that by highlighting Gujarat riots on regular interval and this is what they are doing since 2002, congress may not get room in Gujarat but they think of getting benefit in the rest of the India. Some congress leader even told this earlier. By this way actually they spread communalism, isn’t it? But, they forget one thing. You can fool the people for the couple of occasion, but not all the time.

Looking to the history since independence, there are so many violence occurred even bigger than Gujarat and even some of them state sponsored also, but no SC intervene, no SIT formed, no outcry by so called secularist and Human activist. Even in Gujarat also in 1985, much larger scale state sponsored violence was their but no one even noticed that. What kind of justice this is going on?

Congress is asking from Bachhan to clarify his stand on 2002 riots. This shows the way of congress thinking that riots can be justifiable and this shows the communal mind of congress actually. It’s question of common sense that any form of riots communal/non-communal are always condemnable. So, what’s the reason to seek clarification from Bachhan or anyone else?

Thank you Mr Reddy.You are correct.One family rule is the curse of this country.’Q’ took his swindled crores and left a free man-the PM was out the loop.The phones are taped and PC says that the government did not authorise.So it was donewithout the authorisation of the government-then who authorised it.Has been going on from the time UPA came to power.When the governor returns the compulsory voting bill Freedom of Speech and Expression was cited as reasons-now for the UID card being made compulsory with all personal details does not violate the Right of Freedom?Again as you stated whatever Modi does is wrong for the Congress.That is hands are soaked in blood is entriely another matter.Look at our fate to be ruled by a person of foreign origin !A person who so well is able to hide her hidden agenda and pretend that she has India’s welfare in mind-thats renunciation.The mafia mentality cannot be rooted out neither the fascists approach from that nationality.It is the parambara of that nationality.All the best to you.
Hilda Raja

The congress party has also done same with the gujkok bill – see the functioning of the party which has the same act in one state called maharashtra and denies the same act in the other state because it is enacted by the other party. everything that is fine in other countries must also be fine in our country and a thing which is not good in other countries must also be bad for our country. This point needs much discussion. Here also i point out that the constitution has said that the governor must not be a political party person but the congress party has violated so many times by appointing the congress party people on the post of governors. Remember the arrogant health minister ramdoss in the centre who forcibly enacted the rule in the parliament acting totally prejudiceously against the AIIMS hospitals and the rule was rejected in the Supreme Court, the minister, the pm, the ruling ministry and govt and the ruling congress party the parliament and every body must had resigned at that time and the elections must have come but nothing happened every thing these people digested – true hard luck of this country

One major issue raised is “Validity of the division of country on basis of cast & religion. This is a clear violence of fundamental right of Equality given by Indian constitution to its citizens. I think it is high time to have a nation wide movement against this – to stop the game of vote-bank. Only then the India would excel in real sense.

We urge all the political and social leaders to get united to establish “the Fundamental right of equality”

Dear Ravishanar and Kapil,
You both have said so very correctly the sad state of affairs in the country.Kapil has given a call for a movement to stop this vote bank politics and to fight for equality-which a Fundamental right in the Constitution.The leaders who are supposed to uphold the Constitution are the ones who are violating this Fundamental right with immunity.Petty minds and vested interest.They cannot rise above their own selfishness and hence are putting the country to grave danger both from within and outside.I join with you both in not only all that you have stated but in hoping that such a National Movement will become a reality..All the best.
Hilda Raja

Yes Mr. Raja. Good point raised by Kapil. My view on reservation policy.

SC/ST (or say adivasi, shudra and others) and even Muslims also are poor for their own reason and don’t want to come out of their fence, don’t want to amalgamate with India and don’t want to develop themselves. They are having much more children and could not able to take care of them upto the standard and remain poor. Even I have heard from many SC/ST families that we will produce more children since govt. reserves job for us so not to worry. So, reservation policy is actually acting as a tool of population increment. Due to more children, they are unable to give proper education, personalize care and remain backward in humanity also. (we talk to increase HDI in this situation is remote possibility) Those who comes out of their fence are definitely came up and living their healthy life. You will find many such families not only in city even in the villages. For all these if you can make survey, I am sure you will find that they are having small family of maximum 2 or 3 children and one wife.

133.hilda raja | May 1, 2010 at 11:11 am

Dear Bipen Trivedi,
You have rightly pointed out to the ill effects of the Reservation policy.But one cannot deny that it had done some good-especially in the early stages.But to continue this policy now after 60 years is a curse and keeps the people ghettoed.It has come in handy for the politician to woo the people for votes.This is going to perpetuate the caste system-In fact there was more castes now-and more backwardness and more people are showing themselves as below the poverty line.So how does the reservation policy help.This is the question the politiicans must sincerely ask.But they will not.The creamy layer of each caste corners up all the benefits.So you will find and SC doctor has in his family three generation of doctors.Similarly also IAS.the beefits do not percolate down to the grass root level.Even late Narayanan-former President’s daughter got into the Air Force on the Reservation basis.PC also beefitted-because his caste has been cited as MBC!-Thank you for the valuable input.
Hilda Raja

To my knowledge there is no need on compulsory voting. Honorable Governor has done the 100% right job. If GoG succeed than also there is big process behind it. This may involve lot of paper work after election too.
May I ask you how you get my mail id?

In spite of progress, India leg behind in efficiency, discipline, humanity because of their failure to perform duty honestly and sincerely. Apart from their job duty, one must show alertness towards their duty for family, society, village/town/city, state, nation and by that way contribute to strengthen the democracy. Everyone believes that it is right certainly for people to vote, but not considering it as duty! To franchise vote is one kind of job or duty only all citizen should perform. When the employee working in the office and perform his duty, it is his right to get remuneration for his job/duty or those who want right to get remuneration must perform their job/duty. Same way, citizen has right to enjoy the fruit of democracy and right to franchise their vote must perform their duty to go to polling booth and fulfill it. Else, if he fails in his duty his franchise right can be taken back or restrict their right or punishable. Same as if someone does not work, loses his right of remuneration or punishable or loses his job. We agree that voting percentage should increase, but don’t want to make any effort towards it. It is not true that education can increase voting percentage. If you can make survey, you will find non-voters are mainly educated only.

WHO ARE NOT VOTING SINCE INDEPENDENCE OR NOT VOTED FOR MAJORITY OF TIME FOR WHATEVER REASON HAS NO RIGHT TO ARGUE THAT INDIAN DEMOCRACY HAS FAILED, SINCE THEY DID NOT PARTICIPATED IN DEMOCRATIC PROCESS. WHEN YOU WANT FREEDOM OF SPEECH/ACT, MUST SHOW ACCOUNTABILITY IN RETURN BY WAY OF PERFORMING FRANCHISE RIGHT OR DUTY, ELSE YOU MUST GIVE UP YOUR FREEDOM.

I will not be surprised if a course is offered in school/college curriculum for Modi baiting. Even a Doctorate can be given on presentation of papers if you deride Modi. Such is the state of affairs today.

Dr HildaRaja,
Thanks for acknoledgement on my comments.You have raised another very important and relevant issue.-being ruled by a foreigner.I am fully convinced that we as Indians lack self pride.We should be ashamed that more than a billion people are not able to produce one Indian to rule us.I would not mind even if it is a laloo or Mulayam or Mayavathi or for that any Donkey as long as he/she is a born Indian.Even if we decide that the entire billion+ is useless if we had imported a Margaret Thatcher or Gorbachev who have established credentials we could perhaps accept But to have somebody who just by accident happened to be thewife of somebody who mattered to be our leader!.Shame on us
nnreddy